YOUR SILENT NEIGHBORS
by David K. Leff
Canton Poet Laureate & Deputy Town Historian

YOUR SILENT NEIGHBORS, George W. Graham, Church Deacon

Although he worked over 50 years for the Collins Company, retiring as sales manager six years before his death, George Graham (1886-1964) was best known for his dedication to the Collinsville Congregational Church. Born in Burlington, he lived in the Collinsville area his whole life.

Graham served as a deacon in his church for 41 years, and as superintendent of the church Sunday school. He also had been chairman of the Church Council and moderator of the Farmington Valley Association of Churches (United Church of Christ).

During World War I, Graham was a lieutenant in the National Guard. He was also secretary of the Village Cemetery Association, and a fifty year member and past master of the Village Lodge of Masons.

Graham lived at 59 Dyer Avenue and died at Hartford Hospital. His funeral was held at his beloved church with the Reverend Bruce Anderson officiating. A Masonic service was held at graveside.

George H. Graham is buried in the Village Cemetery, Collinsville.


“Your Silent Neighbors” introduces readers to people out of Canton’s past.  Readers are encouraged to visit these gravesites and pay their respects to the people who have helped make our community what it is today.